While all-singing, all-dancing, all-inclusive resorts are not to be sniffed at, here at House of Coco we also have a penchant a boutique bolthole; the kind of hotels that may be small, but are perfectly formed, with the dedicated attention to detail that sets it apart as a truly luxurious experience.

Since launching in 1990, the Small Luxury Hotels group has turned the luxury boutique hotel into a global phenomenon. Today the team has personally visited, vetted and verified over 530 properties in more than 80 countries across the globe and 2019 has seen the addition of another stellar batch of small, but perfectly formed, hotels to their ever-growing portfolio. From Arizona to Bahrain, we’ve handpicked some of our favourites…

Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe Hotel, Ibiza

Ibiza regulars may have noticed something of a step change in recent years. Fear not, its iconic hedonism still prevails, but there’s been a wave of quiet luxury subtly weaving its way across this most magical of Balearic islands, with a host of elegant properties providing partygoers a wind-down a world away from the main haunts. For 2019, Santa Eulàlia’s Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe Hotel has opened a new rooftop area with a soon-to-be-announced gastronomic concept, along with the addition of 32 new rooms. One of the island’s premier hotels – the perfect location for a peaceful retreat – the views out to Formentera are the ideal refreshing tonic.

Casa Angelina, Praiano, Italy

Since my inaugural trip to the Amalfi Coast last summer I’ve been itching to return, and when I do it shall be to Casa Angelina. Perched atop the majestic cliffs above the fishing village of Praiano, with views out to the endless blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea and Positano, you’d be forgiven for imagining yourself in some kind of romantic 1950s movie scene…

Understated chic is the hotel’s design ethos with elegantly refined relaxation at its core and Amalfi-style fine dining in its restaurants. For the first time this year, guests can also add private cooking experiences to their stay, learning to make authentic, local dishes from the region, including variations of just-caught fresh seafood. Those looking for an unrivalled experience can book a unique authentic night-time squid fishing excursion led by local experts before returning to the hotel to make the area’s traditional “Totani e Patate” (squid and potatoes) with their catch from the excursion.

Ett Hem, Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is ALWAYS a good idea, but no more so than in midsummer, as anyone who’s experienced an endless Scandinavian summer evening will confirm.

Set on a quiet cobbled street in an exclusive Arts and Crafts townhouse, Ett Hem’s 12 rooms each have their ownunique character, mixing modern and vintage style with a sophisticated blend of contemporary and vintage materials such as cane, wood, leather and velvet. From the courtyard garden to the library and relaxation room, every corner exudes low-key ambiance, making a real home from home.

The Merchant House, Manama, Bahrain

Bahrain’s tourism star is on the rise and the January opening of Manama’s The Merchant House has certainly cemented its place in our lust list of must-visit new properties.

The all-suite boutique hotel features striking artwork throughout from both well-established Bahraini artists and up and coming talent, while the rooftop restaurant offers the ultimate dining experience indoors and on the terrace pool. With over 1,00 books in the lobby library you’d be forgiven for fighting the urge while away the hours by the pool, but given the hotel is mere moments away from the vibrant Bab el-Bahrain souk you’ll want to get out and explore what this intoxicating city has to offer.

The Outpost at Sentosa, Sentosa Island, Singapore

In recent years Singapore’s Sentosa Island has gone from a fun family day trip to a seriously hot leisure destination. The Outpost Sentosa only opened in April, but this adults-adults-only retreat is sure to make a big impressions.

Inspired by Sentosa’s heritage as a colonial military base, the 193 guestrooms are a stylish interpretation of black and white design, with crisp lines, hints of gold and a sharply contrasting palette. Set on a hilltop overlooking the beautiful Singapore Strait, it’s a romantic island getaway for the fun and the fearless.

The breathtaking infinity pool takes in a dazzling view of the seaside on the horizon, while perched on the rooftop of the hotel is an exciting new restaurant and bar concept due to be unveiled later in the year that promises revolutionary dining with panoramic views of the South China Sea. This is one playground you’ll want to make a pitstop for.

The Plymouth South Beach Miami, USA

The Plymouth South Beach has stepped straight out of a retro album cover. This peaches and cream Art Deco icon has hardly changed since it was built in 1940 and its slick design shines through. Think metro-tiled bathrooms, vintage- inspired Restoration Hardware furnishings and a dash of golden-age Gatsby glamour.

Book a pool view room for that iconic Miami sunrise, and don’t forget the Sunday night outdoor cinema, the perfect excuse to cosy up by the pool with a cocktail.

Castle Hot Springs, Arizona, United States

Hidden along the rugged Bradshaw Mountains, Arizona’s Castle Hot Springs is the ultimate getaway for guests seeking seclusion.

Newly re-opened in February, the prestigious desert retreat became a haven for the well to-do over the years since it originally opened its doors in 1896. Restored to its former glory, guests can enjoy the rock pool thermal springs whilst sipping a lager made from its own spring water or enjoy exclusively curated activities, from starlight yoga and horseback rides, to exploring the rugged Arizona outdoors and stargazing in one of the USA’s most incredible Dark sky locations.

For more information on any of Small Luxury Hotels’ locations, visit www.slh.com

Author

Northern girl Laura is the epitome of a true entrepreneur. Laura’s spirit for adventure and passion for people blaze through House of Coco. She founded House of Coco in 2014 and has grown it in to an internationally recognised brand whilst having a lot of fun along the way. Travel is in her DNA and she is a true visionary and a global citizen.

Comments are closed.